Relief Demand Calculation in Humanitarian Logistics Using Material Classification

Demand calculation, which is the base of most logistics decisions and activities, is a critical work in humanitarian logistics (HL). However, previous studies on demand calculation in HL mainly focus on demand forecasting methodology, with many neglecting the checklist of critical supplies and practice background. This work proposes a new method for relief demand calculation by dividing the process into two parts: supply classification and demand calculation. A general method for classifying relief supplies and clarifying the checklist of relief items for multi-disaster and multiple natural scenarios is given in detail, followed by the procedure of demand calculation for each relief material. The authors present a case study to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method based on the disaster response practice in China. Detailed lists of relief demand for different types and severities of disaster are provided.